Manny Mizael has been a dedicated Flamengo fan since moving from Brazil to Boston 27 years ago. His passion has led him to organize gatherings for fellow supporters in Massachusetts, celebrating one of Brazil's most beloved soccer teams. However, as U.S. immigration policies tighten under the Trump administration, the atmosphere among fans has shifted from celebration to apprehension.
Many in the Flamengo supporters club are immigrants or lack legal status, leading to heightened fears about potential immigration raids during social events. In an extraordinary move, the group even canceled a watch party earlier this year due to worries that it could attract enforcement actions. “People are being snatched off the streets and getting arrested,” Mizael remarked, illustrating the gravity of the situation.
This apprehension is compounded by the upcoming World Cup, the most-watched sporting event globally, expected to draw 6.5 million attendees, primarily to the U.S. The event’s scale signifies a crucial opportunity for fans to celebrate their teams, often involving substantial investments from their savings. Still, the ongoing immigration concerns pose a daunting backdrop, affecting fans' decisions on when and how to join in on this once-in-a-lifetime occasion.
While the World Cup is typically a moment of joy, the current political climate in the U.S. raises questions about accessibility and safety for many devoted fans aiming to cheer for their national teams amidst a sea of uncertainty.
